Lamaze Classes
Judy O'Connor RN LCCE, Instructor
I am a Lamaze Certified Childbirth Educator who incorporates an eclectic mix of techniques and philosophies of birth and parenting into my classes. ICEA's motto of "freedom of choice based on knowledge of alternatives" guides my class presentations and answers to your questions. Classes are informal and limited to four expectant mothers with their husband, partner or labor support person. I individualize my teaching methods and materials to meet the needs of each class. In addition to your folder of instructional materials, books, videos, CD's and DVD's are available for use at home during your class series.
Classes emphasize physical, emotional and knowledge needs for coping with late pregnancy, labor and birth. Breathing techniques, relaxation, massage, use of music and other comfort measures are presented. Emphasis is on birth as a normal process. Variations of labor, medications, epidurals, and Cesarean Birth are also discussed.
Care of the mother and newborn in the hospital, breastfeeding, and infant safety are explained. Adjustment to parenthood is integrated throughout the class series. Expectant parents practice diapering, dressing, bathing and other infant care skills using newborn teaching dolls.
Pre-registration is required. Please register by the 6th or 7th month of pregnancy. You should begin classes in your seventh month. To register call Judy at (217) 423-6022 .
Lamaze Registration Form
Class fees are due one week before your class begins. Send payment to:
Judy O'Connor
2399 W. Main St.
Decatur, IL 62522
Affirmations for Labor and Birth
I believe in my ability to give birth
I trust my body to birth my child
I have all the strength I need within me
I will remain calm
I breathe slow and even
Inhale peace, exhale tension
I know each contraction is bringing me one
step closer to holding my child in my arms
My job is to relax, breathe and trust my body
to open to birth my baby
My pelvis releases and opens
I accept this birth and am prepared for it |
Class Schedule
Lamaze Class
7 classes per series
Classes limited to four expectant mothers and their husband/partner and labor support person.
Monday Evening
6:30 - 8:30 PM
 January 7, 2008
March 3, 2008
April 28, 2008
July 7, 2008
September 8, 2008
October 27, 2008
December 15, 2008
Class Fee: $125.00
Daytime classes
By arrangement with instructor
Refresher Classes
By arrangement with instructor.
3 classes of your choice from any of the regular series
Expectant parents are encouraged to carefully consider and discuss all the birthing options available in their community before making their birth plan. A birth plan needs to be flexible, allowing for give and take in discussion with your chosen health care providers and for adjusting to the realities of the actual labor process as it unfolds for the birth of your baby. It may be helpful to consider it a birth "wish list" rather than a birth "plan".
The following are two examples of birth plans. The Birth Plan Checklist was developed by Cindy Trainor RNC LCCE MSN CD(DONA) CLC, Clinical Nurse Specialist, The Birth Center at St. John's Hospital, Springfield, IL. The Sample Birth Plan is that of my niece and her husband.
Example Birth Plan |